"Presented with competing hypothetical job offers, two-thirds of workers said they would accept a lower salary from an employer with “sustainable” business practices, which can range from providing employees with a good working environment to reducing pollution emitted by company plants....The findings suggest that companies that emphasize resource management and social stewardship–while also turning a profit—will be in greater demand among job-seekers in the coming years."

The study's respondents also said that they cared more about the sustainability and social conscientiousness of their hiring company more than they did three years ago.

"[Social responsibility] can help attract, retain and inspire employees, particularly when the war for talent is hot," Jenny Davis-Peccoud, the study's primary author, told the Journal.

Looking at what the respondents valued most in a company, the study found that having zero child labor, employee safety, pollution reduction, and strides toward global sustainability (like agricultural projects) ranked the highest.